BleepingComputer reports that malicious browser extensions have targeted nearly 7 million users between January 2022 and June 2022, with adware extensions accounting for almost 70% of all malicious extensions during the same period.
WebSearch, which spoofs document merging utilities, file converters, and other productivity tools, was the most prevalent adware extension during the first six months of 2022, having targeted 876,924 users, according to a report from Kaspersky. Researchers found that aside from tracking users' browsing activity for profiling, the extension also sets the home page of victims' browsers to AliExpress or Farfetch in an effort to collect more funds.
The report also showed AddScript and DealPly as the second and third most popular adware extensions, having targeted 156,698 and 97,525 users, respectively, during the first half of this year.
AddScript has been noted to run videos in the background and boost ad revenue through views on YouTube channels, while DealPly enables automated browser extension injection and new registry key additions after the execution of cracked software, said Kaspersky.
SiliconAngle reports that mounting security alert fatigue has prompted Torq to introduce its new HyperSOC system based on its Hyperautomation Platform using artificial intelligence to enable security operation center response automation, management, and monitoring in a bid to bolster the investigation and remediation of cybersecurity threats.
Moldovan botnet operator Alexander Lefterov, also known as Alipatime, Alipako, and Uptime, has been indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice for his involvement in widespread attacks against U.S.-based computers, BleepingComputer reports.
CyberScoop reports that over 100 Ukrainian local government and police documents uploaded to VirusTotal in February were discovered to have been infected with the OfflRouter malware, which dates back to 2015 and could only spread through already compromised files and removable media devices.